The sad part is the door has been closed for a long time, on those whose story was understood only after WW2 was over for a long time.
Flt/Lt John Wilson RAAF, a pilot with 77 Sqdn RAF, flying Halifax JD413 was lost over Germany on 1/9/43. Who stayed at the controls, even though mortally wounded, so that his crew could escape. Fortunately two RAF Airmen did escape with no harm, and they too went on to serve their country upon their return from Germany, as senior and brillant policemen.
I after obtaining the full story, when their part remains were recovered in 2005, asked the Australian government to award him the DFC, which would have been fairly correct for his action. No says our government, the statute of time has run out, long gone apparently for anyone from WW2 to have their bravery comemrated. Shame all John Wilsons has to remember his dad, who he never knew, was two UK coins recovered from his fathers pocket.
I suppose he could have them mounted and worn on the right occasions.
The price was paid so long ago, and apparently will not be repaid.
Regards
Col Tigwell